The specially made uniforms for the Feb. 15 All-Star Game in Phoenix (the starters will be announced at 7 p.m. Thursday on TNT) are the lightest and most technologically advanced to wear. They are 30% lighter than traditional uniforms. Previously, layers of twill were sewn together, making the uniforms heavier. The new ones also allow less friction because of the reduction of seams.

Three years after going 1-10, Rice seniors Chase Clement and Jarett Dillard guided the improbable Owls to a 10-3 season and capped their record-setting careers with a 38-14 victory against Western Michigan in the Texas Bowl.

With the recent run of NBA coaches getting fired a record six before Christmas it's a wonder any self-respecting player would consider entering the profession after retiring.Not that NBA playing experience is a prerequisite for the job. Of the 30 current coaches, 18 played at least 50 career NBA games, and eight never played in the league.